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Former Pastor Sentenced After Inappropriate Messages | Peoria News
Former head pastor Michael Ritchason, 48, from Pekin, just got sentenced to two months in jail after pleading guilty to sending inappropriate material to a minor — a felony that could’ve landed him up to three years. Instead, he’s getting probation, mandatory treatment, and strict restrictions: no kids around him and limited internet. The scandal erupted in October 2025 while he led Riverside Community Church, which cut ties with him in December after asking for his resignation — he complied, citing the congregation’s best interests. His probation lasts two years, with a court review in…
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